Martinez Touts Manufacturing

Gov. Susana Martinez says two manufacturers in southern New Mexico are expanding and expected to create 40 jobs.

The governor announced the expansion Tuesday as she visited Santa Teresa, which is along the international border with Mexico and is becoming a hub for industrial development.

The two companies each plan to add about 20 jobs.

Southwest Steel Coil produces steel sheets wound into rolls, which are used by companies to manufacture a variety of products. Mallory Metal Products is a metal fabrication business that supplies a wide range of manufacturers.

The business expansion is a bright spot in New Mexico's sluggish economy.

According to the Workforce Solutions Department, jobs statewide grew by 0.5 percent since last March — a gain of about 3,800. Manufacturing employment dropped in the past year.